The numbers tell the story

So first, figure out if you are actually overweight. Figure out your body mass index. If you are above the normal range then you know the answer to that.

You should probably measure your waist size too. You can keep track of that and it will tell you when you are losing fat and developing more lean tissue.

Now, since most of your family doesn't have a weight problem it is likely that it's not your genes. If that case, you are more fortunate than some people.

And since you've always been overweight it might be lifelong habits that are making you fat.

Getting your body to move

Are you active enough?

If you are overweight and you watch too much television then you only have yourself to thank. Life was not meant to be spent in front of a TV set. Or in front of a computer. Or video games. Or just sitting. Anywhere.

Are you walking every day? If not you'd better get to it. Or better yet, how about some real cardio? It will keep you young. At any weight you will be healthier if you are physically fit.